From Ashes to Beauty:

Reflecting On The Destruction And Rebirth Of The Historic Provo Tabernacle

Just over five years ago, an accidental fire all but devoured the historic tabernacle in Provo. Its outer walls were still standing—barely. The interior had been completely gutted. In the subsequent months, this devastating loss raised many questions about what would become of the landmark, originally built in 1885.

The decision was made not only to rebuild the tabernacle but to transform it into a temple—a holy place of worship within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Significant time was spent analyzing how this would be accomplished. Steps were taken to preserve as much of the exterior as possible, while reinforcements were added to strengthen the remaining brick walls. These exterior walls were even placed on 40-foot pillars while a new foundation was built beneath them.

After years of work, the finished project now stands as a stunning reminder that beauty truly can rise from ashes. This remarkable architectural transformation has caused me to reflect symbolically on many couples who feel their marriages have been destroyed. They wonder if there is any hope of salvaging their relationship.

How A Ruined Building Can Mirror A Relationship In Crisis

While every marriage is unique, the journey of the Provo Tabernacle becoming a temple offers hope. It shows us that even when something seems irreparably damaged, with commitment, vision, and effort, it can be transformed into something stronger and more beautiful than before. But how do couples begin this transformation? I believe there are at least four valuable lessons we can learn from the Provo Tabernacle Temple project.

The Importance Of Planning And Shared Goals In Marital Recovery

Before the Provo Temple project began, leaders and architects developed a clear vision of what the completed building would look like. Couples must also take time to envision what they want their marriage to become. This might involve heartfelt conversations, creating a shared set of goals, or even writing down a joint vision for the future. Healing cannot happen aimlessly—it must be guided by a mutual understanding of what you’re working toward.

Why Healing Takes More Than Time—It Takes Daily, Focused Effort

Once a vision is created, the real work begins. There is no substitute for consistent, intentional effort. The Provo temple didn’t rise overnight—it required years of diligent labor. Likewise, a struggling marriage doesn’t improve by chance or by simply waiting for time to pass. It improves when both partners commit to showing up, addressing pain, learning new skills, and practicing those skills every day. Dr. Bill Doherty calls this “The Intentional Family,” a term that reminds us that thriving relationships are built with effort, not luck.

How Shared Values And Restored Friendship Anchor A Lasting Marriage

Your marriage will only be as strong as the foundation it rests upon. During the reconstruction of the tabernacle, the building was elevated so a new, more secure foundation could be installed beneath it. In a similar way, couples must look beneath the surface of their relationship and identify their core values and beliefs.

Research consistently shows that the most satisfied couples share fundamental values and priorities. Start with the basics—rebuild the friendship. Many relationship experts, including John Gottman, emphasize that a strong friendship is at the heart of a strong marriage. Don’t get distracted by surface-level differences until you’ve laid the groundwork.

The Power Of Small Acts Of Love And Attention In Long-Term Change

Once the foundation is secure and progress begins, it’s easy to overlook the small things. But as the saying goes, “The little things are the big things.” A kind note. A moment of eye contact. A small act of service. These details are what shape the everyday experience of your marriage.

During the temple reconstruction, skilled artisans focused carefully on the finishing touches—details that now contribute to the building’s beauty and sacredness. Similarly, couples who wish to transform their relationship must become attentive to the seemingly small but meaningful expressions of care that accumulate over time.

Hope For Couples Ready To Rise From The Ashes—Stronger, Together

If both partners are willing to do the work, even the most devastated marriage can be transformed. The resulting relationship can be more meaningful, more connected, and more fulfilling than what came before. Just like the Provo Tabernacle—once nearly lost to fire—your marriage can stand as a testament that beauty, connection, and strength can rise from ashes.

As couples consider and apply these four lessons, they may discover a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper love, and the hope they thought was gone. The process isn’t easy, but the result can be more extraordinary than either partner imagined.